Client: Town of Manchester-by-the-Sea, Massachusetts

Year: 2022-2023

Project Team

• Town of Manchester-by-the-Sea

Civic Space Collaborative (CSC) provided event management services to the Town of Manchester-by-the-Sea for an off-season event, a project identified out of the Rapid Recovery Plan process. “Skate by the Sea” was a two-weekend event in March 2023 at Masconomo Park. CSC worked with the town and local businesses to solidify an event concept, organize the event details, and coordinate with vendors to procure the supplies.

The event featured a synthetic ice rink, lighting, music, fire pits, seating, and games. Programming included skating with the police chief, themed music, skating lessons with an instructor, and a visit from Olaf from Frozen. Local businesses sponsored free s’mores to roast at the fire pit, other businesses offered promotions, and one hosted a pop-up shop in the gazebo.

“Skate by the Sea” drew nearly 600 attendees across the two weekends the rink and activities were open. On the event's second weekend, CSC surveyed people for the “Downtown Placemaking Plan” and asked them what type of public improvements they preferred. People voted on elements in the following categories: streetscape furniture, wayfinding, public art, and public restrooms. They were also able to leave notes with more detailed ideas or feedback. Skate by the Sea was an excellent opportunity to speak with residents.

The event was funded by the Community One Stop for Growth Urban Agenda Grant.